Kamyab Rayganshirazinejad
Choosing to study Computer Science when you have no previous experience in ICT or programming may seem a bold move, but for Kamyab Rayganshirazinejad it felt like a logical step. Encouraged by a friend who had studied at NHL Stenden, he left his home country of Iran to explore new possibilities in life and education. Arriving in Emmen marked the start of something new.
“The Netherlands felt like a country full of opportunities. My friend’s recommendation gave me the confidence to apply and although the practicalities of settling in were sometimes challenging, on the whole, I’ve appreciated the whole experience. Of course there were difficulties, but they were part of the process.”
Getting used to a practical approach
“The teaching method was the biggest shift for me. It’s more hands-on – a huge contrast to the theory-heavy systems I’d had before. It’s actually a refreshing difference. Seeing your own projects come to life is incredibly motivating, and watching something function that you built yourself is a great feeling. One of the biggest surprises for me was being able to build a working smart mirror by the end of the first year. I hadn’t expected we’d achieve that. It was such a concrete result of our learning.”
Facing challenges with determination
“Adapting to a new way of studying hasn’t been the only challenge though. For me, the main challenges of moving to a new country have been personal, relating to work and being an immigrant in a new country. I’m really determined to make things work and, luckily, the people here have helped me feel like I belong. That’s really mattered and it’s helped me stay focused. The learning curve in computer science can be steep, and I think there’s room for improvement so that it doesn’t become overwhelming. For instance, if we addressed more small problems in class, it could help students get a better grip on the content.”
A sense of community
“We work in groups and although that can mean you’re dealing with cultural differences and a level of natural friction, I really appreciate the atmosphere in class. Sure, group projects have their issues, but that’s to be expected. What’s important is that our class is small, and we’ve grown close. We’ve all learned to appreciate each other’s differences. And I’m grateful for the friendships I’ve formed. Making new friends is what I’m most proud of so far. It’s something that made a real difference.”
Looking ahead with an open mind
“I’m still exploring my options for the future and though I’m keeping an open mind for now, one area is starting to stand out: data science. I think the programme is giving me the technical skills and professional network I’ll need to follow-up my choice. And if I had to convince a friend to join the course, I’m sure I’d win them over by telling them about the internships, showing them our projects, talking about the helpful and down-to-earth lecturers, and of course, about all the events we get to go to. And my message would be simple: don’t get discouraged. Keep your composure and you’ll make it.”
Check out the Computer Science programme page.